If you're looking for an exciting adventure in the Cayman Islands, hop on a George Town fishing charter and explore the tropical waters of the Caribbean! From fly fishing in the bay to offshore trolling and bottom fishing, this town has it all.
Known For
George Town has access to some great flats fishing, as well as amazing offshore opportunities. Just a few hundred yards off the coast, the bottom plummets 800 feet below sea level, forming a part of the Cayman Ridge known as 'The Wall.' Three miles further, the seafloor gradually drops to 23,000 feet, creating the Cayman Trench. This part of the Caribbean is the ideal environment for big game fish to thrive.
Big Game Fishing
Tropical waters from the Windward Passage funnel big game species through the Cayman Islands, making this area a hot spot for deep sea fishing. Top target species include Blue Marlin, Yellowfin and Blackfin Tuna, Skipjack, Mahi Mahi, and Wahoo. Other Billfish, such as White Marlin, Sailfish, and Swordfish are occasionally targeted throughout the year as well. These pelagic fish can be caught year-round but they all peak from spring to fall when the waters are warmer, except for Skipjack, who's peak season is between October and January.
The best part about fishing in George Town is that you don't have to reserve a whole day for offshore fishing. Many big game species show up pretty close to shore, depending on the season. However, keep in mind, a longer trip may increase your chances of hooking a trophy fish. A few extra hours on the water might be worth it, especially if you're going after bigger fish.
Bottom Fishing
Grand Cayman Island is surrounded by reefs that hold some amazing aquatic life. Here, you can go bottom fishing for delicious Snapper species, such as Yellowtail, Queen, Cubera, and Mutton Snapper. You can also catch Triggerfish, Nassau Grouper, Barracuda, Kingfish, and many other types of reef species.
Inshore Fishing
George Town has some great flats fishing as well. There are protected flats on Grand Cayman Island that are great for sight casting and fly fishing. These inshore trips produce lots of great catches from Bonefish, Tarpon, Permit, Jack Crevalle, Pompano, and Mangrove Snapper. Places like Red Bay and Pirate's Lair are right in town and easily accessible, which makes them perfect for shorter, half day trips.
Need to Know
You won't need a fishing license to fish recreationally on Grand Cayman. However, please keep in mind that fishing from shore is prohibited in some areas and is mostly catch-and-release.
Lobster season is closed from the beginning of March to the end of November. The bag limit is three Lobsters per person (six per boat), and they must be at least six inches long. Conch season is closed from the first of May until October 31 and the limits are five per person and 10 per boat.
Bait and tackle are usually provided on charters, so all you should bring is sun protection, food and snacks, and any other personal items you may need. If you're not sure what's included, it's always best to double check with your captain in advance.
Now that you have some information about fishing in George Town, go ahead and check out some of the charters in the area, find the trip that's right for you, and start planning your adventure today!